When you buy something as expensive as a private jet, you expect it to last for years or even decades to come. But how long can you actually expect to soar in your private jet?

This week, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the lifespan of private jets.

Q: How long will a private jet last?

A: If you’re in the market for a private jet, you’re probably wondering, ‘How many years do jets last?’ Just like vehicles, your private jet’s lifespan will depend on how often you use it and how well it’s maintained.

According to Avion Insurance, a comprehensive jet and aircraft insurance broker, a well-maintained aircraft can easily spend 25,000 hours in the sky. They further state that a typical 25-year-old aircraft has only about 12,000 hours. As a result, an aircraft that stays up to date on its maintenance can feasibly last for more than 50 years. Of course, real-life mileage will vary and not every well-maintained jet will reach that 50-year milestone.

Q: What happens to old private jets?

A: Many old jets that still have some life left are sold to new owners who may have more time or be more willing to invest in the aircraft’s regular upkeep. Others that have reached the end of their life may end up in the scrapyard or be recycled or reused for parts.

The International Air Transport Association estimates that up to 90% of parts can be reused or recycled if an aircraft is decommissioned in a “timely and appropriate manner.”

Q: How much does a private jet cost?

A: It depends on the aircraft and whether you buy new or used. For new aircraft, the low end starts at about $2.5 million for a Cirrus Vision Jet. That number can quickly climb to more than $600 million for certain heavy and customized aircraft.

Q: Is a private jet worth buying?

A: Private jets are expensive. With the steep purchasing price to annual maintenance and crew fees that cost anywhere from $500,000 to $1 million, ownership is only worthwhile for people and organizations that spend a significant amount of time in the air.

Ownership only starts to become viable if you fly more than 400 hours a year, or more than eight hours per week. For most people, that isn’t realistic, and the flexibility and relative affordability of a private jet charter is far more compelling.

When you charter a private jet, you unlock all the benefits of private jet ownership without all the downsides. Simply contact your broker when you want to fly—at Stratos, we can get you wheels up with as little as four hours’ notice—and pay as you go with no annual or upfront costs.

Ready to soar higher on a luxurious and safe private aircraft? Contact our private flight advisors at (888)593-9066 to get started.